How Often Do You Use Illicit Drugs?

The annual prevalence of illicit drug use among adolescents aged 12 to 17 years in the United States was highest in the category of all other illicit drug use categories, with the use of "over-the-counter" drugs being the lowest at 3.5 percent. Alcohol use was also very high, with one-third of all drinkers of alcoholic beverages being addicted. Illicit drug use, the most common form of substance abuse, is the result of the unlawful buying and selling of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine that are considered to be among the most addictive, dangerous forms of substances known to man. As one of the most commonly used substances by teens, it is imperative that we, as a society, address this public health crisis head-on.

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With more individuals living with an increased risk of disease and infection due to exposure to illegal drug use, it is crucial that we address this growing problem head-on. Though there are a number of different ways in which to combat drug use and its associated social problems, there is no denying that these issues cannot be solved without a comprehensive approach that addresses the entire spectrum of factors that promote drug use. A comprehensive approach to tackling drug use and its associated social problems must take into account not only current use but the environment in which drug use occurs, as well as individual behavior that enable drug use and the associated problems.

The environment that encourages illicit drug use can be quite varied, and can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common factors underlying illicit drug use are poverty and unemployment, a lack of social services that facilitate frequent use, as well as the availability of illegal drugs. Drug use can often occur within families, and there is strong evidence that those who abuse drugs frequently are also members of their family. It is also likely that those who abuse drugs feel socially ostracized and isolated and are not given the attention or friendship they seek from peers.

Those who use drugs frequently, in particular in a private environment, may experience feelings of stress, anxiety and/or depression, as well as feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. These feelings are likely to lead to substance abuse. Those who do not use drugs regularly but are familiar with the drug trade (such as dealers in the street) may also exhibit similar symptoms, and may try to conceal their drug use to fit in with others. Peer pressure can also be a major contributing factor to users losing track of their medication and increasing their risk of contracting an overdose.

There is also some evidence that regular use of illicit drugs may increase the risk of schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by hallucinations and disarray. In some cases, drug use is the precipitating event behind a person's schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition with a high relapse rate. Many people with schizophrenia have also become regular drug users.

Drug abuse has been connected to a variety of health problems, including the development of cardiovascular disease, HIV and other infections, and certain forms of cancer. Excessive use of a drug can dramatically reduce a person's ability to cope with pain and may result in psychotic symptoms (especially when drugs are used uncontrollably). Excessive drug use can also lead to a decrease in an individual's personal hygiene and lower their IQ level and general physical performance. If you are wondering how many times per year people use illicit drugs, the best way to find out is to take a sample of urine or saliva and testing it at a laboratory for testing for any drugs.